I recently subscribed to an email list called First Light Meditations, thanks to Rev. Rita, and this message came through recently. I loved how it so perfectly aligned with our themes:

“Each new day is a path of wonder, a different invitation. Days are where our lives gradually become visible. Often it seems that we have to undertake the longest journey to arrive at what has been nearest all along. Mornings rarely find us so astounded at the new day that we are unable to decide between adventures. We take on days with the same conditioned reflex with which we wash and put on our clothes each day. If we could be mindful of how short our time is, we might learn how precious each day is. There are people who will never forget today… The liturgy of dawn signals the wonder of the arriving day. Magic of darkness breaking through into color and light is such a promise of invitation and possibility. No wonder we always associate the hope and urgency of new beginning with the dawn. Each day is the field of brightness where the invitation of our life unfolds. A new day is an intricate and subtle matrix; written into its mystery are the happenings sent to awaken and challenge us.” John O‘Donohue

I used to dislike the shortness of these winter days and how it made me feel. Now, I (*sometimes) wake up with deep gratitude for the magic of a changing sky and the opportunities that come with a new day: to create, love, nurture, read, walk, serve, stretch, hear, and see. I appreciate the darkness and the rest more than I used to. I am thankful for a baby who sleeps soundly and a partner who embraces the holidays. I am practicing greater compassion and remembering how temporary everything is. I am supported by kind neighbors, loving family, and caring friends near and far. When I am physically alone, I don’t feel lonely as often as I used to. Today, I pray that you find yourself accepting and even embracing change when you can, because it’s constant.

May you know wonder in the path of change.

Nursery care
We now plan to have the nursery open every Sunday during worship and during some of our Wednesday night activities. Ireland and Korinne are scheduled to be present this week.

The possibility of Children’s Faith Development and Youth Group this Sunday is pending, due to the need for volunteers. Please email Macey at cfddirector@uumankato.org to sign-up if you are interested in helping.